As mentioned in the previous blog entry, it is better that the doctor knows head of time – before seeing the patient – that your company has a RTW program. Otherwise, the physician might get a picture of the workplace from your employee that is inaccurate or different from how your workplace actually is. It’s key that you communicate this to him or her.
As a treating physician, I have always been of two minds about reading detailed job descriptions. First, they can be technical and laborious to read, particularly if you are not familiar with the workplace, do not know the abbreviations, and do not have the context for what the worker really has to do.
Video job banks are quite useful way to familiarize the doctor with the job. The doctor can log in to the video job bank website, view the job, and THEN see the injured employee. This way during the visit the doctor knows exactly what the movements the worker is required to perform. It takes more time to go through a detailed description, ask questions, and then come to a decision with regard to what parts of the job the worker should continue doing. Go to Return To Work America at: www.rtwamerica.com/ to learn about video job banks.
For more cost savings tips go to WC Cost Reduction Tips.
Do not use this information without independent verification. All state laws are different. Consult with your corporate legal counsel before implementing any cost containment programs.
